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The Area

The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean — ancient woodland, dramatic river gorges, and a night sky full of stars.


BHHL

The Birthplace of British Tourism

Quietly tucked along the border of England and Wales, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean has been drawing visitors for centuries. Ancient woodland, river gorges, ruined abbeys, and hilltop castles sit alongside farm shops, cider orchards, and some of the best walking in the country.

Centrally located for spread-out families, with motorway virtually to the door. Under two hours from London, 90 minutes from Birmingham, and just over an hour from Bristol. Close enough for a weekend, special enough for a week.

Something for Everyone

Whatever your group is into, you'll find it here

Paddleboarding and canoeing on the River Wye at Symonds Yat

River Adventures

Canoe down the River Wye, launch a kayak from your doorstep, or try paddleboarding through ancient gorges. The Wye is one of Britain's finest rivers for exploring by water.

Mountain biking and trail riding in the Wye Valley

Walking and Cycling

From gentle riverside strolls to challenging forest trails. The Forest of Dean is a mountain biking hotspot, and the Wye Valley Walk connects stunning viewpoints along the river.

Go Ape treetop adventure in the Forest of Dean

Family Days Out

Puzzlewood, Go Ape, Dean Forest Railway, Clearwell Caves, giant maize mazes, and butterfly gardens. Rainy days sorted with museums, caves, and boat cruises.

Westons Cider Mill, Herefordshire

Food and Drink

Michelin-starred restaurants, proper country pubs, farm shops bursting with local produce, cider orchards, and vineyard tours. The Wye Valley foodie trail is a must.

Goodrich Castle overlooking the Wye Valley

History and Heritage

Tintern Abbey, Raglan Castle, Goodrich Castle, and the medieval market towns of Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye, and Abergavenny. Centuries of stories around every corner.

Adventure activities in the Forest of Dean

Outdoor Pursuits

Go Ape treetop adventures, clay shooting, horse riding, golf courses, and quad biking. The Forest of Dean is an outdoor playground for all ages and abilities.

So Easy to Reach, So Hard to Leave

The Wye Valley sits at the junction of England and Wales, with the M50 and M4 bringing you virtually to the door. Most of our guests arrive within two hours.

Whether your family is scattered across the Midlands, the South West, or Greater London, this is the meeting point that works for everyone. And once you're here, everything you need is close by - the houses, the activities, the pubs, the countryside.

Explore Our Houses

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More to Discover

Our blog is packed with ideas for your group holiday - from foodie trails and riverside walks to birthday celebration guides and rainy-day plans. Over a hundred articles written by people who live and breathe this area.

Read Our Blog